Air and Ground Forces Mobilized Ahead of Gachagua's Impeachment

The Kenyan capital, Nairobi, is experiencing heightened security measures as Parliament Road remains closed and police maintain a strong presence around Parliament Buildings.

This increased vigilance comes in anticipation of a contentious impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The situation has been further intensified by the recent arrest of activist Morara Kebaso and a breach of Parliament on June 25, which left Members of Parliament seeking safety. The political tension extends beyond Nairobi to Gachagua's hometown of Karatina, where police patrols have increased amid concerns of potential demonstrations from both supporters and opponents of the Deputy President. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula is expected to formally notify Parliament of the impeachment motion today, although debate will not commence immediately.

The impeachment bid has gained significant momentum within the National Assembly, with reports indicating that 300 MPs have signed the petition, far exceeding the required 117 signatures. This progress comes despite several unsuccessful legal attempts to block the motion. Deputy Leader of Majority Owen Baya is leading the charge, with Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse set to second the motion. Gachagua faces serious allegations of gross misconduct, including violations of the Constitution and actions deemed detrimental to national unity. His controversial statements suggesting preferential treatment for regime supporters and prioritization of populous regions have drawn sharp criticism.

These remarks have been interpreted as contradicting constitutional principles of equitable resource distribution. The impeachment process, as outlined in Article 145 of the Constitution, requires a two-thirds majority in Parliament for the motion to succeed. The National Assembly's Standing Orders stipulate that the motion must be addressed within seven days of its introduction, failing which it would be withdrawn for the remainder of the session. The motion officially lodged against Gachagua includes accusations of inciting ethnic hatred and unlawfully acquiring assets worth over Sh 5.7 billion, including notable properties such as Tree Tops Hotel and Vipingo Beach Resort.

Additionally, Gachagua is accused of violating constitutional articles related to his duties as the President's principal assistant and insubordination through public contradictions of presidential policy statements. In response to the mounting pressure, Gachagua has publicly challenged his critics, particularly daring Rift Valley MPs to support the impeachment motion. He has also warned President William Ruto of potential political repercussions if the motion proceeds, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity within the ruling coalition.